The evolving landscape of dental education requires higher education institutions to continually expand their academic networks at the global level. In response to this demand, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), has officially established a strategic partnership with the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University (Dent Chula), Thailand.
The partnership was marked by the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) by the Dean of FKG UGM, Prof. drg. Suryono, S.H., M.M., Ph.D., and the Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Prof. Pornchai Jansisyanont, DDS, MSc, Ph.D., on Monday (13 July). The agreement focuses on student exchange programs, academic capacity building, and cross-border research development.
According to the MoA, the collaboration encompasses five areas of cooperation. The two institutions agreed to conduct collaborative research, facilitate student and staff exchanges, and exchange academic documents and publications. Other priority activities include joint academic programs such as courses, seminars, training sessions, conferences, and symposia.
Although the five areas have been established, opportunities for collaboration remain flexible and can accommodate various other programs. FKG UGM Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Cooperation, drg. Trianna Wahyu Utami, MDSc., Ph.D., stated that the agreement could continue to be developed to address the needs of the academic community.
“Going forward, it is possible that the collaboration will expand to other activities, such as expert lectures, hands-on sessions, and similar programs that support the competencies of students and lecturers,” Trianna said.
The Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, also expressed optimism regarding the future implementation of the programs. Prof. Pornchai personally conveyed his appreciation for the collaborative initiative.
“We hope today marks the beginning of a productive and mutually beneficial relationship. We very much look forward to welcoming FKG UGM students and teaching staff to our campus,” Prof. Pornchai concluded.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti
Photo: Maria Shinta